So you’d like to play some Small-Sided Football?
Eleven-a-side football will always be the overwhelming concern of The FA but we are also aware that football participation is changing. Recent years have seen a significant growth in the numbers of people playing Small Sided Football.
The popularity of this format of football is a reaction to changing work and leisure patterns and a move towards ‘pay and play’ football.
The FA has launched a Small Sided Football Award Scheme which is available to centres and competition organisers of all types and sizes, including indoor and outdoor sites.
The aim of the scheme is to aid the continued development of facilities and participation in England by:
- Offering recognition and benefits to those providers that attain The FA's quality standards.
- Promoting best practice guidelines for Small Sided Football centres and competition organisers.
- Enhancing the awareness and profile of Small Sided Football in England.
- Encouraging participation opportunities for all players, referees and coaches.
A number of Small Sided Football Centres have already achieved the Award. There are two levels of rating, with a standard award for those centres and competition organisers that achieve the rigorous quality standards and an advanced award for providers that contribute to the delivery of The FA's Football Development Strategy.
Further Information on Applying for the Small Sided Football Award is available for centres who have applied or are considering making an application for the Award. There is also Further Information for Players who would like to find out more about Small Sided Football centres.
The Laws of Small Sided Football have been revised for the benefit to players and referees. The FA encourages all Small Sided Football centres to adopt these uniform Laws.
With over four million footballers now playing Small Sided Football, there is always a need for more referees. The FA has introduced a referees course specifically for the sport and further details can be obtained from your local County FA.
The FA has developed Mini Soccer as the best - and most fun - introduction to the world’s greatest game. It is a version of Small Sided Football for children that is now played by thousand boys and girls. Teams consist of between four to seven players, depending on the age group of players.
Futsal is the format of Small Sided Football that is recognised and supported by FIFA and UEFA. There is a UEFA Futsal Cup for clubs, and UEFA Futsal Championships and FIFA World Championship for national teams.
Click to find out more about The FA Futsal Cup and the England Futsal team.